The Santoku knife, Japan’s answer to the all-purpose chef’s knife, has become a kitchen favorite thanks to its razor-sharp edge, flat profile, and granton scallops that prevent food from sticking. And here’s the best part: you don’t need to spend a small fortune to own a great one. We tested dozens of affordable Santokus and handpicked the 7 best Santoku knives under $100 in 2025—each one sharp, balanced, and budget-friendly.
Mercer Culinary Genesis 7-Inch Santoku
- Blade Length: 7 inches
- Material: High-carbon German steel
- Handle: Santoprene, slip-resistant
Why I like it: A true workhorse. This knife is razor-sharp and comfortable to hold. The granton edge helps reduce food sticking when slicing potatoes or cucumbers.
Best for: Everyday chopping and slicing.
Victorinox Swiss Classic 7-Inch Santoku
- Blade Length: 7 inches
- Material: Stainless steel
- Handle: Textured, ergonomic
Why I like it: Lightweight but powerful. The textured grip feels secure in your hand, and it’s dishwasher-safe, making cleanup easy.
Best for: Busy home cooks who need a reliable, no-fuss knife.
Imarku 7-Inch Japanese Santoku
- Blade Length: 7 inches
- Material: German high-carbon stainless steel
- Handle: Ergonomic pakkawood
Why I like it: This one combines stylish looks and excellent sharpness. The pakkawood handle adds a premium feel, and the knife glides through veggies and proteins.
Best for: Cooks who want beauty and performance under $100.
Cuisinart Classic 7-Inch Santoku Knife
- Blade Length: 7 inches
- Material: Stainless steel
- Warranty: Lifetime limited
Why I like it: Affordable and practical, with a solid weight and sharp edge. It’s dishwasher safe and comes from a trusted brand.
Best for: Budget-conscious shoppers who want reliable performance.
Paudin Pro Kitchen Santoku Knife
- Blade Length: 7 inches
- Material: German stainless steel
- Handle: Ergonomic pakkawood
Why I like it: Sharp edge with a wave-pattern blade that looks premium and resists sticking. It’s surprisingly durable for the price.
Best for: Style-conscious home cooks who also want functionality.
TUO Ring Series 7-Inch Santoku Knife
- Blade Length: 7 inches
- Material: German stainless steel
- Handle: Ergonomic G10 handle
Why I like it: Super comfortable grip with a razor-sharp edge. It feels balanced and professional without the steep price tag.
Best for: Serious home cooks on a budget.
MOSFiATA 7-Inch Santoku Knife
- Blade Length: 7 inches
- Material: High-carbon German stainless steel
- Extras: Includes finger guard & sharpener
Why I like it: A great starter kit. Not only is the knife sharp and precise, but it also comes with bonus accessories for safety and upkeep.
Best for: Beginners who want an all-in-one package.
Buying Guide – Picking a Santoku Under $100
Blade Length
7 inches is the sweet spot for most Santoku knives—compact yet versatile.
Edge Design
Granton (scalloped) edges reduce sticking, making slicing smoother and faster.
Handle Comfort
Ergonomic handles (wood or synthetic) make long chopping sessions easy.
Quick Comparison
| Product | Best For | Amazon Link |
|---|---|---|
| Mercer Genesis | Everyday chopping | SHOP HERE |
| Victorinox Swiss Classic | Busy kitchens | SHOP HERE |
| Imarku Santoku | Style + performance | SHOP HERE |
| Cuisinart Classic | Budget choice | SHOP HERE |
| Paudin Pro | Premium look | SHOP HERE |
| TUO Ring Series | Balanced design | SHOP HERE |
| MOSFiATA | Beginners & extras | SHOP HERE |
FAQs
What’s the difference between a Santoku and a chef’s knife?
A Santoku has a flatter edge and a sheep’s-foot tip, making it better for precision slicing and quick chopping.
Are budget Santoku knives worth buying?
Yes—under $100, you can get a sharp, durable Santoku that rivals pricier options when cared for properly.
Do I need a granton edge?
Not essential, but it helps reduce food sticking when slicing moist ingredients like zucchini or potatoes.
The Bottom Line
The Mercer Genesis Santoku leads the pack with sharpness and durability, while the Victorinox Swiss Classic is perfect for fast-paced kitchens. For those who want something stylish, the Imarku Santoku is a great choice under $100. A Santoku knife brings speed, precision, and value to your kitchen arsenal.